Lobbying expenditures against GMO labeling soar this year

Polls show that Americans favor labels that disclose whether foods contain genetically modified ingredients, though there is no definitive science showing that such foods are harmful to humans.

Polls show that Americans favor labels that disclose whether foods contain genetically modified ingredients, though there is no definitive science showing that such foods are harmful to humans. (Robyn Beck / AFP/Getty Images)

The food industry spent $9 million lobbying Congress to oppose laws requiring labeling for genetically modified products in the first quarter of this year, nearly matching its total spending for all of last year, a new report said.

The Washington D.C.-based Environmental Working Group said big spenders included the Grocery Manufacturers Assn., which spent $1.2 million, and the Coca-Cola Co., which spent $2.6 million, on anti-labeling lobbying in the first three months of the year.

The group said that the total from lobbying expenditure forms citing genetically engineered labeling for the first quarter nearly matched the $9.3 million tallied in all of 2013.

The increased spending underscores the pitched battle over labeling laws, which are being proposed in several states.

In May, Vermont became the first state to require labeling of genetically engineered products, a rule that is being challenged by the food industry in court. Oregon and Colorado will vote on labeling later this year.

Connecticut and Maine have passed labeling regulations that only take effect if other northeastern states do the same.

Labeling initiatives were defeated in California and Washington.

Numerous polls show Americans are in favor of labels that disclose if foods contain genetically modified organisms. This despite there being no definitive science showing that such foods are harmful to human health.

Proponents say the technology, which alters plants' genes in a lab, is a way to boost yields, build disease resistance and feed hungry nations. About 93% of all soybeans and 90% of all corn grown in the U.S. are genetically modified varietals, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.